Wartime, when women had to dress accordingly; frivolity was out and simplicity was in. This season designers have been greatly inspired by the elegance of the 1940’s.

Gucci, Miu Miu, Johnathan Saunders, Galliano and Dior have brilliantly re-invented this dignified era as seen through their Winter 2012 collections. The structured forms of this year give women the androgynous look while still remaining chic.

Important elements of the trend consist of elegant silhouettes, tailored jackets, and padded shoulders, along with narrow hips and mid-calf skirts.

Accessories were also a key element to the era and included long gloves, lavaliere collars, berets and hairnets.